4/3/2022 -- 302 Beer Drinkers’ Choice Awards

Crooked Hammock is excited to announce the return of 302 Beer Drinkers’ Choice Awards on April 3.

The Crooked Hammock Brewery team is excited to announce the return of its annual 302 Beer Drinkers’ Choice Awards from 1 to 5 p.m., Sunday, April 3, at its flagship Lewes brewpub, 36707 Crooked Hammock Way.

For the advance ticket cost of $39, guests will be treated to samples from more than 30 Delaware breweries, carrying on a years-long tradition of being the first and only festival to feature every brewery in the First State – all under one thatched roof, with a beautiful beach view. To purchase tickets, go to eventbrite.com and search 302 Beer Drinkers' Choice Awards.

Known for its sudsy silliness and refined debauchery, the 2022 edition of the 302 Beer Drinkers’ Choice Awards is a celebratory return to normalcy for beer lovers who trade sheltering at their place for drinking in this space. Costumes are strongly encouraged, and awards will be doled out in the following categories: Fan Favorite Beer, Most Unique Beer, Best Brewery Costume, Best Drinkers Costume and Best Edible Necklace.

Guests will have the chance to vote online and democratically pick winners. The interactive process takes the power away from a stuffy panel of judges, the tried-and-true method for most festivals. This year’s winner will walk away with a ceremonial championship wrestling belt and a golden tap handle to take home – and, of course, ultimate bragging rights for a full calendar year after weeks of playful trash-talking on social media.

“Delaware’s brewery scene has exploded by leaps and bounds in recent years, and we wanted to create a one-of-a-kind festival that promotes our shared commitment to the 302,” said Rich Garrahan, Crooked Hammock owner. “Every single brewery in the state is welcome back, and we challenge those who haven’t reached out to get off the sidelines. Don’t be scared. It’s more about connecting with each other than winning or losing.”

The stress-free party is open to anyone age 21 and above, and IDs will be checked at the door. Food and snacks will be available for purchase; tickets at the door cost $45.

The list of participating breweries is constantly being updated; check the Crooked Hammock website often for new additions. Wilmington Brew Works will be looking to defend its 2019 title against the following competitors: Twisted Irons Craft Brewing, Dewey Beer Company, Thompson Island Brewing Co., Big Oyster Brewery, Mispillion River Brewing, 38-75 Brewing, Midnight Oil Brewing, Blue Earl Brewing, Crooked Hammock Brewery, Volunteer Brewing Company, Iron Hill Brewery, Loakal Branch Brewing Co., JAKL Beer Works, Dogfish Head, and Revelation Craft Brewing.